Social Security can impact people in all stages of life and they strive to provide easy and convenient ways to learn about and apply for its benefits.

Jack Myers with Social Security says you may have a family member that does or will soon need assistance navigating the world of Social Security and has some tips for us. Use the online services to assist friends and family members to learn about Supplemental Security Income (SSI) www.ssa.gov/ssi.

Myers points out SSI is a needs-based program that can pay benefits on the basis of disability or age - 65 or older. There is no work history required, but you do have to have limited income and resources. People who may not meet the work requirements to qualify for Social Security disability could still qualify for SSI. Review the website to help them learn if they may qualify, and in some cases, the SSI application can even be filed online. 

The Social Security disability benefit is probably the most known benefit through Social Security. Myers explains those who are unable to work because of disability and are under full retirement age should consider applying for Social Security disability benefits (SSDI)

According to Myers, if you're going to be helping a loved one with any of these programs within Social Security, you'll want to create a personal mySocialSecurity account. The mySocialSecurity account is a personal portal to Social Security information about yourself. You can’t create an account on behalf of someone else, but you sure can sit with them and help them do it.

For more information on how you can help others visit www.ssa.gov/thirdparty.